Powersports Regulation Update

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A summary of legislative actions affecting the powersports industry

CALIFORNIA Legislative Democrats have proposed increasing the corporate tax rate to 9.3 percent from 8.8 percent and eliminating for three years a business's ability to deduct net operating losses. The bill now goes to the full state Assembly and Senate, where it needs a two-thirds vote to pass.

GEORGIA SB 437 provides new definitions for assembled and kit motorcycles, and provides that "unconventional motorcycles" cannot be titled or registered in the state. The bill was signed into law on May 14.

HAWAII The Department of Land and Natural Resources is considering a petition to allow personal watercraft recreational use around the island of Lanai. The state would retain the right to prohibit PWC use in areas that could harm the environment or endangered species. PWC operators also would need complete a state safety course.

MARYLAND Motorcycle lights that blink, flash, oscillate, are attached to wheels or emit red or blue light are now prohibited. The state allows motorcycles to use 1) blue dot illumination at the rear as part of or adjacent to a brake light; 2) standard bulb running lights; and 3) LED pods and strips to protect the rider.

MASSACHUSETTS The state senate passed sweeping legislation regarding registration and use of ATVs and snow vehicles. The bill requires all quads and snowmobiles to be registered by Sept. 1; bans the use of ATVs by anyone under age 14 and limits the engine size of ATVs for children between the ages of 14 and 16; requires ATV operators under the age of 18 to complete a recreation vehicle safety and responsibility course; requires ATV riders to wear helmets; and makes ATV owners who allow individuals under 18 to operate their quads responsible for any damage or injuries.

NEW HAMPSHIRE ATV and snowmobile riders under 18 will be required to wear helmets and eye protection starting Jan. 1, under a bill signed by Gov. John Lynch. The new law specifies that the helmets must meet federal safety standards.

Visit www.dealernews.com ("State/Federal News") for more detailed information on recently enacted state laws.